Descent of Spirit

Descend, prophetic Spirit! that inspir’st The human Soul of universal earth, Dreaming on things to come; and dost possess A metropolitan temple in the hearts Of mighty Poets; upon me bestow A gift of genuine insight; that my Song With star-like virtue in its place may shine, Shedding benignant influence, and secure Itself from all malevolent effect Of those mutations that extend their sway Throughout the nether sphere!—And if with this I mix more lowly matter; with the thing Contemplated, describe the Mind and Man

Contemplating; and who, and what he was– The transitory Being that beheld This Vision;—when and where, and how he lived; Be not this labour useless. If such theme May sort with highest objects, then–dread Power! Whose gracious favour is the primal source Of all illumination—may my Life Express the image of a better time, More wise desires, and simpler manners;—nurse My Heart in genuine freedom:—all pure thoughts Be with me;—so shall thy unfailing love Guide, and support, and cheer me to the end!